A hurricane impact window is a complete unit with glass and frame designed to:

1. Withstand the internal and external wind pressures during hurricane and tropical storms, specially here in South Florida.

2. Withstand flying projectiles launched at a certain speed. Hurricane impact windows and doors are tested by a third party to verify their performance under specific conditions outlined by local building codes.

Impact windows are designed to be durable and long-lasting. On average, impact windows can last between 20 to 40 years, depending on several factors:

1. Quality of Materials: High-quality impact windows made with premium materials tend to last longer.

2. Installation: Proper installation by experienced professionals ensures that the windows perform optimally and last as long as possible.

3. Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and inspecting the seals and frames, can extend the lifespan of impact windows.

4. Environmental Factors: The lifespan can be affected by the local climate and exposure to hash weather conditions, such as frequent hurricanes or high levels of UV radiation.

Yes! Installing impact windows can reduce homeowners insurance premiums. Here's Why:

1. Increased Protection: Impact windows are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, such as hurricanes and strong winds, reducing the likelihood of damage to your home. This decreased risk often leads insurers to often lower premiums.

2. Enhanced Security: Impact windows are more difficult to break, which can deter break-ins and burglaries. Enhanced homes security can also contribute to lower insurance rates.

3. Mitigation Credits: Many insurance companies offer mitigation credits or discounts for homes with impact-resistant windows because these homes are less likely to file claims for storm-related damages.

To take advantage of these potential savings, its important to:

▪️Notify Your Insurer: Inform your insurance company about the installation of impact windows and provide any required documentation or certifications.

▪️Check Local Regulations: Some regions have specific building codes or standards for impact windows. Ensuring compliance can maximize your potential discounts.

Yes, hurricane impact windows are highly effective and provide significant protection during severe weather events. Here are several reasons why they work:

1. Durable Construction: Impact windows are made with multiple layers of glass and a durable interlayer, usually polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This construction prevents the glass from shattering into dangerous shards if broken.

2. Tested for Performance: These windows undergo rigorous testing to meet stringent building codes and standards, ensuring they can withstand high winds speeds and impact from flying debris during hurricanes and storms.

3. Pressure Resistance: Impact windows are designed to resist the pressure changes that occur during hurricanes, preventing the windows from blowing out and maintaining the structural integrity of the building.

4. Enhanced Security: The same features that make impact windows resistant to hurricane damage also make them more secure against break-ins, adding an extra layer of protection for your home.

5. Energy Efficiency: Impact windows provide good insulation, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs. They also blocks significant amount of UV radiation, protecting your interiors from sun damage.

6. Noise Reduction: The thick, multi-layered construction of impact windows also provides soundproofing benefits, reducing the amount of outside noise that enters your home.

Numerous case studies and real-world experiences have demonstrated the effectiveness of impact windows in protecting homes during hurricanes and severe storms. By installing these windows, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of damage and increase the safety of their properties.

No, tempered glass and impact glass are not the same. They are have different properties and serve different purposes:

TEMPERED GLASS:

1. Manufacturing process: Tempered glass is made by heating regular glass to a high temperature and then rapidly cooling it. This process makes it much stronger than regular glass.

2. Strength: It is approximately four to five times stronger than regular glass and is designed to shatter into small, blunt pieces rather than sharp shards when broken. This reduces the risk of injury.

3. Common Uses: Tempered glass is commonly used in shower doors, car windows, glass doors, and other applications where safety and strength are important but not specifically for impact resistance against severe weather.

IMPACT GLASS:

1. Manufacturing Process: Impact glass, also known as laminated glass, consists of two or more layers of glass bonded together with an interlayer, usually polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This interlayer holds the glass together if it breaks.

2. Strength: Impact glass is specifically designed to withstand high impact forces, such as lying debris during hurricanes. It may not necessarily shatter upon impact, and even if it does, the interlayer keeps the pieces together, maintaining a barrier.

3. Common Uses: Impact glass is used in hurricane-resistant windows and doors, skylights, and other applications requiring high levels of impact resistance and security.

KEY DIFFERENCES

▪️Purpose: Tempered glass is primarily for safety and strength, whereas impact glass is for withstanding impact and providing continuous protection.

▪️Behavior Upon Breakage: Tempered glass shatters into small pieces to minimize injury, while impact glass mar crack but stays intact due to the interlayer, providing ongoing protection.

Both types of glass enhance safety, but impact glass offers superior protection against severe weather and break-ins, making it ideal for hurricanes-prone areas and high-security applications.

Yes, many impact windows do have Miami-Dade County approval. This approval indicates that the windows meet the stringent building codes and standards set by Miami-Dade County, which are some of the toughest in the United States due to the region's susceptibility to hurricane and severe weather.

FINDING APPROVED PRODUCTS:

When purchasing impact windows, you can look for products that have Miami-Dade County approval by checking the manufacturer's specifications or visiting the Miami-Dade County Product Control website, where you can search for approved products by manufacturer or NOA number.

1. Improved Energy Efficiency

▪️ Insulation: Modern windows often come with better insulation properties, such as double or triple glazing and low-E coatings, which help to keep your hoes warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

▪️Reduced Energy Bills: Better insulation means less reliance on heating and cooling systems, which can lead to lower energy costs.

2. Enhanced Comfort

▪️Temperature Regulation: High-quality windows help maintain a consistent indoor temperature, improving overall comfort.

▪️UV Protection: Many new windows have coatings that block harmful UV Rays, protecting your furniture, flooring, and interior items from fading and damage.

3. Increased Home Value

▪️Curb Appeal: New windows can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

▪️Market Value: Energy-efficient and stylish windows can increase the resale value of your property.

4. Improved Security

▪️Stronger Materials: Modern windows are often made stronger, more durable materials that are harder to break, enhancing the security of your home.

▪️Advance Locking Mechanisms: New windows typically come with better locks and security features, further protecting your property.

5. Noise Reduction

▪️Soundproofing; High-quality windows with multiple panes and insulated frames can reduce outside noise, creating a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment.

6. Reduced Maintenance

▪️Durability: Modern windows are designed to be more durable and resistant to the elements, reducing the need for frequent repair and maintenance.

▪️Easy Cleaning: Many new windows have features like tilt-in sashes that make them easier to clean from inside your home.

8. Enhance Natural Light

▪️Larger Glass Areas: New window designs often maximize the glass area, allowing more natural light into your home, which can improve mood and reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day.

9. Condensation Reduction

▪️Better Seals: Modern windows with improved sealing technologies help reduce condensation buildup, which can prevent mold growth and improve indoor air quality.

10. Customization Options

▪️Variety of Styles: New windows come in various styles, materials, and colors, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your home's design.

▪️Special Features: You can select windows with special features like tinted glass, custom shapes, and decorative grids to meet your specific needs and preferences.

Yes, impact windows can protect against burglary. Here's How:

1. Reinforced Construction: Impact windows are made with multiple layers of glass and a durable interlayer, usually polyvinyl (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This makes them much harder to break than standard windows.

2. Shatter-Resistant Design: Even if the glass crack or breaks, the interlayer holds the pieces together, preventing the window from shattering and creating an opening that burglars could use to enter.

3. Durable Frames: Impact windows often come with reinforced frames that add an extra layer of security, making it even more difficult for intruders to pry or force open the window.

4. High-Quality Locking Mechanisms: Many impact windows feature advanced locking systems that provide additional security against break-ins.

5. Deterrent Effect: The robust construction and additional security features of impact windows can act as a deterrent, making your home a less attractive target for burglars.

6. Compliance with Safety Standards: Impact windows that meet stringent safety standards, such as those set by Miami-Dade County, are specifically designed to withstand not only severe weather but also forced entry attempts.

By installing impact windows, you can enhance the security of your home, providing peace of mind and protection against potential break-ins.

Yes, impact windows can significantly reduce noise. Here's how they contribute to a quieter indoor environment:

1. Multi-Layered Construction: Impact windows are made with multiple layers of glass and an interlayered construction helps dampen sound vibrations, reducing the amount of noise that passes through the window.

2. Thicker Glass: The glass used in impact windows is often thicker than that in standard windows. Thicker glass is more effective at blocking sounds waves.

3. Tight Seals: Impact windows are designed with high-quality seals that prevent air and sound leaks. This reduces that amount of external noise that can enter though gaps around the window frame.

4. Laminated Glass: The laminated glass in impact windows provides an additional barrier to sound. The interlayer between the glass panes absorbs sound energy, further reducing noise transmission.

BENEFITS OF NOISE REDUCTION:

▪️Enhanced Comfort

▪️Better Sleep

▪️Increased Privacy

▪️Higher Property Value

Choosing the right hurricane contractor is crucial to ensure high-quality installation and long-lasting protection. Here are key steps to help you select a reliable contractor:

1. Verify Credentials

▪️Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the contractor is licensed to operate in your state and has adequate insurance coverage, including workers' compensation and liability insurance.

▪️Certifications: Look for contractors certified by reputable industry organizations, such as the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) or the National Glass Association (NGA)

2. Experience and Expertise

▪️Track Record: Choose a contractor with several years of experience specifically in installing hurricane windows.

▪️Portfolio: Ask to see a portfolio of completed projects to assess the quality of their work and their experience with similar installations.

3. Product Quality

▪️Brands and Materials: Inquire about the brands and types of hurricane windows they offer. Ensure the products meet local building codes and standards, such as Miami-Dade County approval.

▪️Warranties: Check for product warranties and make sure they cover both materials and labor.

4. References and testimonials

▪️Ask for references: request contact information for fast clients and follow up with them to ask about their experience with the contractor.

▪️Testimonials: Look for testimonials on the contractor's website or marketing materials.

5. Communication and Professionalism

Responsiveness: Choose a contractor who communicates clearly and responds promptly to your inquiries.

Professionalism: Assess their professionalism during initial consultations. They should be knowledgeable, courteous, and willing to answer your questions.

6. Contract and Timeline

▪️Written Contract: Ensure all terms are documented in a written contract, including the scope of work, timelines, payment schedule, and warranty details.

▪️Project Timeline: Discuss the project timeline and ensure the contractor can complete the work within your desired timeframe.

7. Local Knowledge

▪️Building Codes: Choose a contractor familiar with local building codes and regulations. They should ensure compliance to avoid future issues.

▪️Climate Considerations: Select a contractor experienced with installations in your specific climate to ensure optimal performance of the hurricane windows.

LOOK NO FURTHER!

Aconcagua Miami has all the credentials to start on your desired projects right now. Licensed and Insured in the State of Florida.

It is our pleasure to bring you quality products by Aconcagua Miami. Whether you need sliding glass doors for your high-rise property, or single-hung windows for you family home, we are here to help you accomplish any projects that you have planned for you home or business.

RESIDENTIAL IMPACT RESISTANT WINDOWS

▪️Single Hung Window

▪️Single Hung Wall System

▪️Horizontal Slider Window

▪️Fixed Picture Window

▪️Casement Window

▪️Awning Window

▪️Skylight Window

COMERCIAL IMPACT RESISTANT WINDOWS

▪️Commercial Door

▪️Store Front Wall System (Window)

▪️Stick Curtain Wall System (Window)

▪️Skyline Window (Window)

These are the Impact resistant doors available at Aconcagua Miami, we also have different types of glass available for every project that you have planned for your home or business.

IMPACT RESISTANT DOORS

▪️Sliding Glass Door

▪️Multipurpose Sliding Glass Door

▪️Swinging Door

▪️Pivot Door

▪️Residential Entry Door

COMERCIAL IMPACT RESISTANT DOORS

▪️Commercial Door

▪️Store Front Wall System (Window)

▪️Stick Curtain Wall System (Window)

1. Clear the Work Area

▪️Move Furniture: Relocate any furniture, decorations, or items near the windows to be replaced. This gives the installers unobstructed access and protects your belongings from potential damage.

▪️Remove Window Treatments: Take down curtains, blinds, shades, and any hardware. This ensures the installers have direct access to the windows and prevents your treatments from getting dirty or damaged.

2. Protect Your Belongings

▪️Cover Furniture: Use sheets or drop cloths to cover nearby furniture and surfaces to protect them from dust and debris.

▪️Secure Fragile Items: Remove and safety store any fragile items or Valuables in the work area to prevent accidents.

3. Create a Clear Path

▪️Indoor Access: Ensure there is a clear path from the entryway to the windows being replaced. This helps installers move in and out efficiently without tripping over obstacles.

▪️Outdoor Access: Trim any bushes, trees, or plants that may obstruct access to exterior windows. Move outdoor furniture or decorations away from the installation area.

4. Plan for Noise and Disruption

▪️Schedule Appropriately: Choose a time for the installation that minimizes disruption to your daily routine. Inform family members or roommates about the work schedule.

▪️Pet Safety: Keep pets in a safe and secure are away from the work zone to protect them from noise and potential hazards.

5. Prepare for Dust and Debris

▪️Cover Floors: Lay down drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect floors and carpets from dust and debris.

▪️Close Interior Doors: To contain dust, close doors to rooms not being worked on.

6. Utilities and Security

▪️Disable Alarms: If your windows are connected to a security system, notify your alarm company and disable the alarms on the window being replaced.

▪️Power Access: Ensure the installers have access to electrical outlets if they need to use power tools.

7. Post- Installation Cleanup

▪️Inspect the Work: Once the installation is complete, inspect the work to ensure it meets your expectations. Check for proper sealing and operations of the windows.

▪️Cleanup: Us professionals from Aconcagua Miami will clean up after ourselves.

By Taking these steps, you can help ensure a smooth installation process and protect your home and belongings during the work.

1. Inspect the Installation

▪️Check Seals and Frames: Ensure that all seals are tight and there are no gaps around the frames: Proper sealing is crucial for insulation and preventing drafts.

▪️Operate the Windows: Open and close each wnidow to make sure they function smoothly. Check that locks, latches, and other hardware work correctly.

2. Clean the Windows

▪️Remove Residue: Clean off any adhesive residue. Use mild cleaner and soft cloth to avoid scratching the glass.

3. Check for Damage

▪️Glass Inspection: Inspect the glass for any cracks, scratches, or other damage that may have occurred during installation.

▪️Frames Inspection: Look for nay damage to the frames, such as dents, scratches, or misalignment.

4. Register Your Warranty

▪️Product Warranty: Register your windows with the manufacturer to activate any warranties. keep a copy of the warranty information and installation receipts in safe place.

▪️Contactor Warranty: if our contractor offers a warranty on their work, make sure you understand the terms and keep the documentation.

5. Maintain Your Windows

▪️Regular Cleaning: Clean the glass, frames, and tracks regularly to prevent buildup of dirt and grime.

▪️Check Seals and Caulking: Periodically inspect the seals and caulking around the windows to ensure they remain intact and effective.

▪️Lubricate Moving Parts: Use a silicone-based lubricant on moving parts, such as hinges and tracks, to keep them operating smoothly.

6. Monitor Energy Bills:

▪️Track Changes: Monitor your energy bills over the next few moths to see if you notice a decrease in heating and cooling costs, which can be a benefit of new, energy-efficient windows.

7. Update Insurance Information

▪️Home Insurance: Notify your home insurance provider about the new windows. You may be eligible for discounts due to improved home security and storm protection.

8. Stay Informed

▪️Manufacturer's Instructions: Fallow any specific care and maintenance instructions provided by the window manufacturer to ensure longevity and performance.

▪️Contractor Fallow-Up: If your contractor offers a fallow-up service, schedule it to address any issues that may arise after installation.

By taking these steps after your windows and doors installed, you can ensure they remain in excellent condition, function properly, and provide all the benefits you expect.

1. Initial Consultation and Measurement (1-2 weeks)

▪️Consultation: Schedule a consultation with a contractor to discuss your needs, preferences, and budget. This may include reviewing windows styles, materials, and features.

▪️Measurements: One of Aconcagua's contractor will visit your home to take precise measurements of your existing windows or doors to ensure a proper fit for the new impact windows.

2. Choosing and ordering Windows (1- 3 weeks)

▪️Selection: Choose the type, style, and features of the impact windows you want to install.

▪️Ordering: Once you've made your selection, the contractor will place the order with the manufacturer. Custom windows may take longer to produce than standard sizes and styles.

3. Manufacturing and Delivery (4-8 weeks)

▪️Production Time: The time required for manufacturing the windows can vary. Standard windows might take around 4-6 windows, while custom or special-order windows can take 6-8 weeks or longer.

▪️Shipping: After manufacturing, the windows need to be shipped to the contractor's location. This can take additional time depending on the distance and shipping method.

4. Pre- Installation Preparation (1-2 weeks)

▪️Scheduling Installation: Once the windows arrive, the contractor will schedule the installation. This depends on their availability and your convenience.

▪️Preparation: The contractor may perform any necessary preparations, such as removing old windows and preparing the installation area.

5. Installation (1-3 days per home)

▪️Installation Time: The actual installation of the windows typically takes 1-3 days for an average-sized home, depending on the number of windows and the complexity of the installation.

▪️Inspection and Cleanup: after installation, the contractor will inspect the work and clean up the job site.

TOTAL ESTIMATED TIMEFRAME: 8-14 WEEKS

▪️Manufacturer Lead Times: Some manufacturers may have longer lead times, especially during peak seasons or supply chain disruptions.

▪️Custom Orders: Custom windows take longer to produce than standard models.

▪️Permits and Approvals: If permits are required for the installation, obtaining them can add extra time to the process.

Yes, many impact windows and doors come with screens, but this can vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific product. Here are some considerations regarding screens for impact windows and doors:

1. Included Screens

▪️Standard Feature: For many impact windows and doors, screens are included as standard feature. They are designed to fit perfectly with the specific window or door model.

▪️Optional Add on: In some cases, screens may be offered as an optional add-on, allowing you to choose whether or not include them based on your needs and preferences.

2. Types of Screens

▪️Retractable Screens: These can be pulled out when needed and retracted when not in use, providing flexibility and clean look.

▪️Fixed Screens: These are permanently attached to the window or door frame and provide constant protection against insects.

▪️Sliding Screens: Common for sliding impact doors, these screens move along a track and can be easily opened and closed.

3. Material and Durability

▪️Screen Material: Screens for impact windows and doors are typically made from durable materials like fiberglass or aluminum mesh, designed to withstand weather conditions and wear.

▪️Frame Material: The frames of the screens are usually made from sturdy materials such as aluminum or vinyl, which complement the durability of the impact windows and doors.

4. Customizable Options

▪️Size and Fit: Screens are often customizable to ensure a perfect fit with your specific window or door dimensions.

▪️Color and Finish: You can often choose from different colors and finishes to match the aesthetic of your windows and doors.

5. Benefits of Screens

▪️Insect Protection: Screens provide an effective barrier against insects and pests, allowing you to enjoy fresh air without the nuisance of bugs.

▪️Ventilation: Screens enable you to open your windows and doors for ventilation while still maintaining security and protection from debris.

▪️UV Protection: Some screens offer additional UV protection, helping to reduce glare and protect your interior furnishings from sun damage.

6. Considerations when Ordering

▪️Confirm Inclusion: When ordering impact windows and doors, confirm with the manufacturer or contractor whether screens are included or need to be purchased separately.

▪️Compatibility: Ensure that the screens are compatible with the specific type of impact windows and doors you are installing.

▪️Maintenance: Consider the ease of removing and cleaning the screens, as regular maintenance will help keep them in good condition.

Impact windows are doors often come with screens, either as standard feature or an optional add-on. Always confirm the inclusion of screens and their specifications when ordering to ensure they meet your requirements.

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